Despite growing awareness of work-life balance, long working hours remain a major concern in Japanese workplaces. Numerous studies and government guidelines highlight the link between long hours and declining mental health.
Definition and Health Risk
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) warns that more than 45 hours of overtime per month increases health risks. Working over 80 hours is called the \”karoshi line,\” which refers to a high risk of serious illness or death from overwork.
Legal Background
Under Japanese labor laws, working over 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week requires a \”36 Agreement\”. In addition, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, companies must provide physician interviews to employees exceeding 100 hours of monthly overtime.
Mental Health Consequences
Prolonged work hours can lead to chronic fatigue, insomnia, and emotional isolation. These factors increase the risk of depression and anxiety disorders. Preventive measures are crucial for both employee well-being and productivity.
Cases in Tokyo and Shinjuku
In urban areas such as Tokyo and Shinjuku, IT and sales professionals often experience long working hours. In such environments, support from occupational physicians is essential.
Role of Occupational Physicians
Occupational physicians play a critical role in maintaining employee health and advising employers. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting and analyzing stress checks
- Planning and supporting mental health strategies
- Providing interviews for high-risk workers
- Supporting return-to-work programs
Astella Occupational Health Office offers tailored occupational health services mainly in the Tokyo and Shinjuku areas.
What Employers Can Do
To protect employee health, employers and HR professionals should:
- Monitor and reduce overtime hours
- Conduct health checkups and follow-ups
- Implement annual stress checks and keep records
- Provide physician interviews to high-risk employees
Importantly, prevention is better than reaction. Early intervention systems are key to minimizing risk.
Conclusion
Long working hours reduce employee well-being and corporate performance. Compliance with labor laws and collaboration with occupational health professionals are essential for a healthy workplace.
Astella Occupational Health Office helps your company establish a proactive health management system that prevents mental health issues before they arise.
